1-Palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-rac-(1-glycerol) ammonium salt [81490-05-3]

1-Palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-rac-(1-glycerol) ammonium salt, commonly abbreviated as POPG-NH4, represents a specific class of synthetic phospholipids that has been extensively used in non-clinical research to study the fundamental properties of lipid membranes. This molecule is composed of a glycerol backbone where the sn-1 position is esterified with a palmitoyl chain, the sn-2 position with an oleoyl chain, and the sn-3 position linked to a phosphoglycerol group that is further neutralized by an ammonium ion. POPG-NH4 is particularly valuable in the study of lipid bilayers due to its unique combination of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, which significantly influences the fluidity and phase behavior of membranes. The presence of the ammonium salt not only enhances the lipid′s solubility in water but also introduces a zwitterionic headgroup that affects the electrostatic interactions within lipid layers and between the lipid and other membrane-associated molecules. Researchers have utilized POPG-NH4 to probe the structural dynamics of cell membranes, investigate membrane fusion events, and understand the role of specific lipid compositions in the organization and function of artificial membrane systems. These studies are crucial for advancing knowledge in fields such as materials science and nanotechnology, where the manipulation of membrane-like structures is key to developing innovative materials.

References:

1. Phospholipid-lactose permease interaction as reported by a head-labeled pyrene phosphatidylethanolamine: a FRET study.  |  Suárez-Germà, C., et al. 2013. J Phys Chem B. 117: 6741-8. PMID: 23647499